The Case for Christ by Lee Strobel
Week 11: Part Three, Chapter 10 — The Medical Evidence
Read Part Three, Chapter 10 of The Case for Christ. Key interview: Dr. Alexander Metherell, physician and scientist, on the physical death of Jesus.
Previewing Week 11 of The Case for Christ
Read 3 of 7 discussion questions below. Unlock the complete 15-week guide when you’re ready.
Before the resurrection can be evaluated, the death of Jesus must be established beyond reasonable doubt. This week, Strobel enters a medical examination room to ask: did Jesus really die on the cross?
Discussion Questions
7 questions1.Dr. Alexander Metherell provides a detailed medical analysis of the crucifixion process — beginning with the Roman flogging Jesus received before even reaching the cross. What does Metherell say about the physical effects of the flogging alone, and why does this matter for evaluating whether Jesus could have survived the crucifixion?
2.Metherell describes the physiological process of death by crucifixion in clinical detail — including asphyxiation, cardiac trauma, and the buildup of fluid around the heart. How does the medical evidence from John 19:34 (blood and water flowing from Jesus' side) fit into this picture?
3.Strobel asks about the "swoon theory" — the idea that Jesus didn't actually die but only fainted on the cross and later revived in the cool of the tomb. What is Metherell's medical assessment of this theory?